Most Common Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in the body and runs from the lower back through the hips and down the legs. The condition is characterized by pain and other symptoms that can vary in intensity and duration.

These symptoms occur when the sciatic nerve is compressed at any point along its path. Chiropractic treatments can relieve the stress and compression along the nerve to relieve pain and pressure of the compressed nerve. Here are some common symptoms of sciatica.

Tingling or Burning in Your Leg

The sciatic nerve is responsible for providing sensation to the legs and buttocks. When it becomes compressed or irritated, it can cause tingling or burning sensations in these areas. It mainly affects one side of the body at a time, though you may experience pain in both legs simultaneously.

Pain in the Buttocks or Legs

Sitting for long naturally puts pressure on the sciatic nerve in the lower spine. If the sciatic nerve is already inflamed, irritated, or compressed, sitting for long periods may increase the pressure on the nerve, leading to more pain that grows more severe the longer you sit.

Constant Hip or Buttock Pain

When suffering from sciatica, you may experience a light strain of pain while performing basic tasks like walking, standing, or seated. However, since the nerve passes directly through the buttock and hip area, this condition can cause discomfort throughout the affected region.

Pain in the Lower Back

When the sciatic nerve gets compromised, it branches away from the lumbar spine and can trigger lower back pain. If the nerve is inflamed or compressed by the lumbar spine, you may experience prolonged episodes of dull lower back pain or short periods of severe lower back pain. Our chiropractor can determine whether your back pain results from sciatica through guided assessments. 

Weakness or Numbness in Your Leg

Though sciatica is often associated with pain, weakness and numbness are common. For example, you may experience a loss of sensation in your foot or leg and have problems standing or walking due to weakness in the leg.

The sciatic nerve serves the legs and buttocks muscles, and when it's affected, it can no longer help the lower muscles effectively, leading to numbness.

Get Chiropractic Treatment to Relieve Sciatica Discomfort

Sciatica can cause various symptoms, including tingling or burning in the legs and pain in the buttocks or legs. These symptoms can significantly affect your daily activities, reducing productivity and making you uncomfortable.

At South Square Chiropractic in Durham, NC, we help alleviate sciatica patients' pain through chiropractic treatment and help them return to their optimum productivity. Book an appointment at (919) 490-5400 for a comprehensive assessment of your condition and a routine to help ease pressure and discomfort around your sciatic nerve.